Betty Joan Rice

Betty Joan Dover Rice, age 86, of Old Fort, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones at her residence on Friday, January 22, 2021.  The daughter of the late Thomas and Pearl Reed Dover, she was born in Buncombe County, North Carolina on January 20, 1935. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Ray Rice “Red”, who passed away on September 12, 2013; two sisters, Hazel Bryson and Mary Ann Greenwood; and one brother, Thomas Young Dover, Jr..

An avid reader and birdwatcher, Betty loved animals, especially her cats and dogs.  She enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and working with her flowers.  Following many years of dedicated service, Betty retired as Post Master at Enka Post Office.  She was a member of One Focus Church in Swannanoa.

Left to cherish her precious memories are her daughter, Paula Parker (Ronnie), one son, Mike Rice (Lib); and one sister, Mildred Melton.  Betty is also survived by her eight grandchildren, Scott Parker (Tanya), Shane Parker (Regina), Stephanie Cannon (William), Samantha Lee, Shanna Rickman (Mark), Richard Rice (Drema), Donna Laughter and Susan Chavez (Martin); eighteen great grandchildren, Marrissa, Shelby, Sydney, Dakota, Calah, Cody, Colten, Cade, Zach, Max, Madison, Karris, Peyton, TJ, Caroline, Karly, Daisy and John-Michael; four great-great grandchildren, Braxton, Dawson, Cortlen and Cade; and two great-great grandbabies on the way, Baby Jones and Baby Cannon. 

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Beam Funeral Service & Crematory in Marion.  Betty will be laid to rest next to her late husband, “Red” at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain.